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The burgeoning research in attachment theory, affective neuroscience, polyvagal theory, epigenetics, and trauma treatment has given new directions for the practice of prenatal and perinatal psychology. The authors offer essential fundamentals for the integration of these new principles into clinical practice with individuals and families from pre-conception through adulthood.

John Chitty is a polarity therapist, biodynamic craniosacral therapist and psychotherapist in Boulder, Colorado, USA. With Anna Chitty, he operates Colorado School of Energy Studies (www.energyschool.com) offering trainings in these modalities and related subjects, since 1992. He is author of the new book, Dancing with Yin and Yang, as well as co-author of Energy Exercises (1988). The new book includes numerous sections with well-tested information relevant to providing gentle and effective support for babies and their families.

Prenatal and perinatal psychology and medicine is an interdisciplinary scientific field of research and practice with the scientific focus on prenatal and perinatal conditions of human life. Prenatal period of human life represents a crucial phase in human life during which crucial developmental processes and regulations take place and these serve as adaptation strategies and physiological capabilities for the next postnatal life´s periods.

Abstract: The implantation journey of the blastocyst/embryo is traced throughout its many biologic/embryologic transitions and transmutations. Possible psychological impacts that may arise from early stresses, imprints, and other experiences are discussed. The journeying blastocyst/embryo is sometimes portrayed as a protagonist in the transcript of each human being’s personal past. Events confronted and subsequent coping or survival styles during the journey are examined in reference to adult behavior patterns and belief systems.

Abstract: Birth literature reveals many perspectives about “good birth,” and an investigation into a good birth is necessary because women and children are entitled to the experience that most supports their health as well as their psychological wellbeing and fulfillment. There exists a culture within maternity services of professionals working with apparently conflicting agendas, which may contribute to service user input being excluded. The objective of this study was to understand the viewpoints about “good birth” using a Q methodology approach.

This exploratory study investigated the experiences of fathers upon the postnatal news that their newborn babies had been given diagnoses of Down syndrome. Thirteen fathers were interviewed about their experiences of immediate postnatal support. Participants had biological children born with Down syndrome and interacted with the western medical community regarding the child’s birth. Fathers often experienced the messengers of the news of a postnatal diagnosis of Down syndrome as insensitive and pessimistic.

The field of pre- and perinatal psychology (PPN) is informed by the work of many individuals, therapeutic and academic communities, and scientific achievements. Trends and influences on the field itself can be divided into several main categories: origins, historical threads, formal channels, legitimizing scientific studies and approaches, and finally, integration of therapeutic approaches. It is difficult to put all of these influences in one chronological chart; it is more like they weave together to form a tapestry.

Prenatal and perinatal psychology as a field of practice an emerging discipline in the healing arts. The development of a code of ethics is a marker of this maturity. This paper was developed for the Association for Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and Health as part of its certification program for educators.